As part of the International Polar Year, cold regions (polar and sub-polar) were highlighted because of their sensitivity to the recent global warming. Thus, permafrost and periglacial environnements are directly triggered by the increase of the air and soil temperatures, that directly impact the functioning of fluvial systems. The researcher will focus his study on the analysis of geomorphological and hydrological processes in permafrost and periglacial environments (mainly Siberia and Spitsbergen). The approach will be based on multi-scale and pluridisciplinary methods. Data acquisition from the field study will allow quantification of periglacial processes, dissolved loads and sediment transferts at the scale of hydrosystems.

The candidate will prepare for an entrance examination for a permanent position at the CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) 15km from Paris, France. Application deadline is 9 January 2008 but you must contact the project coordinator, Francois Costard, francois.costard@u-psud.fr, by early December. Speaking French is not essential but would be a plus nonetheless.